The Promise of a Pencil
288
Autobiography / Memoir • Nonfiction
Global • 2010s
2014
Adult
18+ years
In The Promise of a Pencil, Adam Braun recounts his journey from a successful career at a top consulting firm to founding Pencils of Promise, a nonprofit organization dedicated to building schools and providing educational materials in underserved communities. Inspired by a child's simple request for a pencil, Braun leaves his corporate job, leveraging a $25 deposit and his network to create lasting change through education, and sharing his methods for others to pursue their passions and make a meaningful impact.
Inspirational
Heartwarming
Adventurous
Hopeful
Emotional
10,199 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Adam Braun's The Promise of a Pencil garners praise for its inspiring narrative about building a global education nonprofit. Readers appreciate Braun's passionate storytelling and actionable insights. However, some critique its occasional self-promotion and lack of deep structural analysis. Overall, it effectively motivates individuals to pursue altruistic endeavors.
A reader who would enjoy The Promise of a Pencil by Adam Braun is inspired by entrepreneurial stories of social change. Fans of Blake Mycoskie’s Start Something That Matters or Malala Yousafzai’s I Am Malala will appreciate Braun’s journey of building schools in developing countries. The book appeals to those passionate about education, philanthropy, and making a global impact.
10,199 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
The author, Adam Braun, was inspired to start his educational charity, Pencils of Promise, after a simple encounter with a young boy during his travels who wished for a pencil.
Braum founded Pencils of Promise with just $25, a milestone that symbolizes how powerful small beginnings can be in making a global impact on education.
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The book highlights how Braun balanced his entrepreneurial dreams with working at Bain & Company, showcasing a blend of corporate experience and philanthropic ambition.
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288
Autobiography / Memoir • Nonfiction
Global • 2010s
2014
Adult
18+ years
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